Burnley headteacher sends bereavement booklet to students’ families

PARENTS of students at Unity College, Burnley, have been sent a letter and booklet offering bereavement advice following the death of Declan Edwards.

The 16-year-old Year 11 student was found hanged in secluded woodland near Rowley Lake last Thursday afternoon following a major police search after he went missing for four days.

In the letter to parents, which is also available on the school's website, headteacher Sally Cryer said: “You may already be aware of the recent tragic death of Declan Edwards, a year 11 student, at our college.

“Your child has been told about the incident and may be upset by what they have heard. There are many ways in which children display their grief and therefore we enclose a booklet about ‘Death, Bereavement and Grief for Young People’.”

The advice comes as it was revealed police received a ‘concern for safety’ call about a vulnerable friend of Declan’s who was at Rowley Lake early on Saturday morning.

“Upon arrival, it was clear that the man was in a lot of distress about the recent passing away of Declan Edwards. The officers acted swiftly to ensure the man’s safety before he was then taken to hospital for treatment.

“Declan Edwards’ passing was a very sad event that has deeply affected many in the local community.

A spokesman for the Samaritans said: “If something's troubling you, then get in touch. We're here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

“We listen to you and help you talk through your concerns, worries and troubles.”

The Samaritans are available on 08457 909090.

n We have been asked to point out that Christopher Edwards, Declan’s dad, was not present at a special assembly at Unity College on Friday morning, as was previously reported by the Lancashire Telegraph.